Cam Butler signs three-year entry-level contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed forward Cameron Butler to a three-year entry-level contract, starting in 2023-24.

Butler, 20, was an unsigned forward with the OHL’s Oshawa Generals. Currently in his fifth OHL season, Butler has 24 goals, 49 points and 111 penalty minutes in 59 games for his best junior hockey output.

The Generals acquired Butler from Niagara last year, recording 41 points between the two clubs. Butler was originally drafted 27th overall by the Peterborough Petes in 2018 and played parts of two seasons with the club after a strong U-16 campaign with York Simcoe.

Butler, a 6-foot-4 forward, is described as a leader, and wore the “C” with Niagara prior to the trade last year. He’s physical and willing to lay it on the line as a mid-tier power forward.

“Cameron is a physical forward with size, strength, toughness and tremendous character and leadership,” GM Jarmo Kekalainen said. “He is a hard-working, competitive player and we are excited to welcome him to the Blue Jackets family.”

Butler will finish the season with Oshawa, who is currently fighting for the final spot with Kingston in the Eastern Conference. The OHL’s playoffs are set to kick off later this month.

The Blue Jackets are dead last in the league and the favorites to land Connor Bedard at the 2023 NHL Draft.